Mary Allen
The Affenpinscher is one of the oldest dog breeds, although the exact origin has not yet been fully clarified. The fact is that the pinscher, which has probably been around for thousands of years, is involved in the origin of the breed. Some experts even see similarities in the skull of a pinscher with the peat-sweeping dog, which, according to archaeological finds, already populated all of Europe during the Neolithic and Bronze Ages.
The painting “The Arnolfini Wedding” by Jan van Eyck provides definite proof of the existence of the Affenpinscher. The painting, which dates from 1434, shows a small dog that bears a striking resemblance to the Affenpinschers known today. However, the Flemish artist was not the only one to immortalize the breed in his works. Albrecht Durer, who lived from 1471 to 1528, also dedicated several woodcuts to the breed. The family of the popular Empress Elisabeth of Austria is also said to have owned Affenpinschers. Numerous legends surround the breed. The well-known German cynologist Josef Berta related that on a cold winter night in 1824 a rich lady from Hamburg allegedly gave away a pair of Affenpinschers to a couple who collected the toll. The animals were extremely valuable at that time, as you paid one thaler for two females or one male.
#1 The Affenpinscher is a lively animal that loves variety. With his exuberant temperament, he needs a lot of variety.
Despite being a relatively small breed, the Affenpinscher is surprisingly resilient. He likes to prove his condition on long walks. Since he has a pronounced play instinct, he gets along well with children. When the Affenpinscher is naturally busy, he also loves to cuddle with his family.
#2 Although he is very affectionate towards his people, there are two personalities in the little dog. The self-confident animal wants to protect its pack at all costs and acts as the guardian of the family.
When he shows this side to strangers, he can seem a bit short-tempered. No wonder the French call him "Diabletin Mustache" (in English: little devil with whiskers). As long as everything goes according to the head of the little four-legged friend, he is extremely cooperative. If something goes against the grain, a bad mood spreads. Then the four-legged friend switches to stubborn until his owner distracts him with a game or a caress. Since the Affenpinscher is not resentful, his sunny disposition quickly shows itself again.
#3 What is the temperament of an Affenpinscher?
Despite its small size, the Affenpinscher is a real bundle of temperaments. He needs a lot of exercises and wants to be challenged both physically and mentally. When dealing with his family, he proves to be affectionate and cuddly, he also gets along well with children. However, he often shows his qualities as a guard dog to strangers. Only after a while does he gain confidence.